Food Item Support and Method of Displaying a Food Item

ABSTRACT

A confectionary food article support is disclosed that comprises a structure having a letter, number, or symbol shape. The device displays food articles along its upper surface and in alignment with its shape. The support comprise a raise upper surface and an article support means therealong, wherein the support means comprise either discrete apertures or an elongated channel for a plurality of food articles to be placed and aligned therein. The exact symbol can be chosen from any number of recognizable symbols, while several supports of differing shape may be displayed adjacent to one another to form an overall message or phrase. It is desired to disclose a food article support, and particularly a support for cupcakes, that provides a decorative and functional design, whereby the support may serve for simply display purposes, or further the support material may be suitable for use as a baking pan and display article.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/661,594 filed on Jun. 19, 2012, entitled “Cupcake Display and Say.” The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to article supports that form shapes or messages with their structure. More specifically, the present invention pertains to a confectionary item holder display having a shape that spells a letter, number, or symbol that can be arranged by itself or with other accompanying supports to display a message.

Displaying food products in a pleasing and themed manner is common for certain events, particularly for providing a pleasing array of food items for selection or for directing a group to a particular message in an attractive manner. For those celebrating a birthday, for an organization having a special event, or for a surprise gathering, arranging food products in an attractive and appealing manner can boost the decor of the event and show particular care was given during its arrangement. Common arrangements include particular structures for cakes, arranging gifts or party favors in an aligned or stacked configuration, or displaying confectionary items in a unique and eye catching fashion (e.g. chocolate fountains, tiered food arrangements, etc.).

Of particular interest in the present disclosure is the display of confectionary and pastry items, and specifically the display of cupcake treats for guests to readily visualize and access. Cupcakes are baked cake items provided in a single serving portion, whereby the cupcake comprises a baked cake region and an upper portion having icing thereover. The cake is supported by a thin paper liner, which surrounds the cupcake batter while cooking and thereafter supports the cooked batter therewithin. These personal treats are well known confectionary items that are popular during birthday parties, events, and for dessert consumption.

While baking, several cupcakes are generally aligned within a baking sheet having cupcake depressions therealong. These baking sheets or pans support a plurality of cupcakes during the baking process, and are generally utilitarian in design and use. The cupcakes are removed from the baking pan after the cupcakes are fully cooked, whereafter the pan is either discarded or cleaned for subsequent use. Cupcake baking pans, the process of making cupcakes, and cupcake items themselves are well understood in the art. The present invention offers a cupcake or similar confectionary item support that offers utility and design aspects for the user to artfully display the items after they have been prepared.

The present invention contemplates a structure forming a letter, number, or symbol that is adapted to support a confectionary item such as a cupcake for display. The device is a support having a plurality of support apertures that accept a cupcake therein, whereby the support forms a recognizable symbol that may be used singularly or in combination with adjacent supports of different symbol shape to form an overall message or theme. The supports may comprise an arraignment article that accepts cooked cupcakes therein, or further the supports may be comprised of a material and design such that it can be inserted into an oven to support cupcakes as they cook and thereafter support them as they are displayed for selection and consumption. The goal is to provide an attractive article support that allows for personalization of an area for a desired theme, while supporting confectionary treats that may be selected by passersby.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to cupcake and confectionary support devices. These include devices that have been patented and published in patent application publications, and generally relate to supports of diverging design and intent with regard to the present invention. The following is a list of devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure, herein described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the unique aspects of the present invention, and further highlighting the drawbacks existing in the prior art.

Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 7,387,283 to Franczyk discloses a stand for holding a food item for displaying the food item in an arrangement that resembles a tree. The displaying comprises a vertical trunk member having threaded end connections with adjacent trunk members. Attached to the truck members are a plurality of braches that extend outward and include an arm portion and a spiral portion. The spiral portions create an interior cavity within which to accept and support a food item, such as a muffin or cupcake. The base and sides of the food item are supported, while the base of the trunk includes a stand that is capable of supporting the items and the structure of the stand on a generally horizontal surface. The Franczyk device, while disclosing a novel food article stand, provides an assembly that resembles a tree having food items supported along the tree branches. The present invention pertains to a food support that is shaped as a letter, number, or symbol such that several supports can be placed next to one another to form a message.

Another such item is U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,243 to Stiles, which discloses a tray for supporting multiple confectionary items in an array for displaying purposes. The tray comprises a number of cavities that possess attachment points to an underlying platform. The center of the tray bulges upward in a generally spherical fashion to display the confectionary items along the arc therecreated. While disclosing a fashioned tray that is designed for cupcake and other confectionary item display purposes, the Stiles structure and design diverges from that of the present invention, wherein the intent is to create a dessert support article that forms a message.

Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,583,955 to Toloczko discloses a cupcake holder display that includes a series of aligned and interconnecting holders forming a line thereof, where by the holders form a chain that can be lead by a toy item such as a train or an animal. The holders comprise support legs, a circular opening, and coupling elements to secure adjacent holders together in a line. The coupling element forms a pivoting connection where the line of holders can make a curved chain, while the forward toy member includes a single coupling element along its rear to give the impression that the toy is towing the chain of holders. While disclosing a novelty display that resembles a train or line of towed items, the Toloczko device does not offer a display that functions as a message when combined with adjacent holders or even by itself. The present invention provides a holder forming a letter, number, or phrase to form a desired message for onlookers.

The present invention provides a support article formed into a message or symbol that is both decorative and functional, whereby the support provides locations for which confectionary items may be placed before, during, and after being cooked in certain embodiments. It is submitted that the present invention is substantially divergent in design elements from the prior art, and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing confectionary support devices. In this regard the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of confectionary support devices now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new support device that can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when displaying and supporting cupcakes and other items in a formed pattern such that the support provides a recognizable letter, number, or symbol to be enjoyed.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved confectionary item support device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a confectionary item support device that functions as a novelty display, whereby the structure of the support forms a letter, number, or other symbol suitable for display and decorative purposes.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a confectionary item support device that can support a plurality of cupcakes therein, whereby the structure provides discrete support locations or an elongated channel for supporting cupcakes in a pattern that presents a readily visible symbol.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a confectionary item support device that can be constructed to function as both a display support article and a baking pan, wherein the device supports confectionary items while being baked and thereafter supports the items in a decorative fashion after they are ready for consumption.

A final object of the present invention is to provide a confectionary item support device that can be readily manufactured and provided to the consumer in a cost effective manner.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention, supporting cupcakes in a set pattern.

FIG. 2 a shows a cross section of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 b shows a cross section of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 c shows a cross section of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention, supporting cupcakes in a defined channel therein.

FIG. 4 a shows a cross section of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 b shows a cross section of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 c shows a cross section of another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the confectionary item support. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for supporting cupcakes in an arrangement that forms a symbol, wherein the support may be used as a cooking too, a display tool, or both. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown an overhead perspective view of the present invention in a working state, supporting a plurality of cupcakes in an aligned pattern that forms the shape of an alphabetic letter. The device comprises a confectionary item support having a structure that creates an arrangement forming a visible symbol, wherein the items are supported for selection and consumption, and a message is conveyed by the selected shape of the device. As shown in FIG. 1, the device is arranged into the letter “M,” which can be combined with adjacent supports having an alphanumeric or symbolic shape to form an entire phrase or message. The overall message can be determined based on the given event or environment, where a suitable message is chosen by the preparer. Examples of suitable events include birthday parties, office celebrations, dinner parties and the like.

The structure of the present invention may take several different forms falling within the scope of its described utility. These include the shape and structural design of the article, the way in which confectionary items are supported on the device, and the chosen manufacturing process by which the device is formed or fabricated. As shown in FIG. 1, the device is a stamped or formed structure having an upper surface 13 forming the forward portion of the symbol, upstanding sidewalls 12 adjacent to the upper surface, and a base lip 11 or base surface that is adapted to lay flat against a support surface. The lower portion of the device is open and uncovered while the sidewalls 12 and upper surface 13 form an elevate bridge. The sidewalls 12 elevate the upper surface 13 above a support surface to provide depth to the structure and to allow clearance between the upper surface 13 and the base, within which the body 16 of a cupcake 15 or similar confectionary item is accepted. The cupcake body 16 is housed within discrete apertures 14 within the upper surface, wherefrom the upper portion 17 of the cupcake is positioned above the upper surface 13 to display the frosting of the cupcake 15 while the body 16 of the cupcake is shrouded within the open interior of the device and mostly below the upper surface. Displaying the upper, icing area 17 of the cupcake above the upper surface adds to the decorative look of the assembly when deployed.

The upper surface 13 remains largely parallel to the base 11 and the support surface, and winds a path to form the symbol. The support comprises a first and second termination 18 and several bends 19 that create the body of the symbol desired to be displayed. It is contemplated that the support device may be deployed with several complimentary versions having differing designs for the purposes of matching an event and providing a visible message by their adjacent placement. The material of the support can range from a thin plastic that provides an inexpensive and disposable support for a party, or alternative the structure may comprise a metallic structure that is suitable for use as a baking pan. The baking pan embodiment is higher in cost, but provides a reusable and multipurpose device for the user. The device can be deployed when cooking the cupcakes 15 as a support therefor, and thereafter the device may be left to cool and thereafter deployed as a display means for the cooked cupcake articles.

Several different embodiments for the structure of the present display device are contemplated, specifically the type of support provided along the upper surface for the confectionary items. Referring now to FIGS. 2 a through 2 c, there are shown three cross sections that display embodiments of the cupcake supports wherein the cupcakes are discretely supported along the upper surface 13. Specifically, the supports comprise an aperture 14 through the upper surface 13 of the device, wherethrough a cupcake is placed. Below the upper surface 13 and through the aperture 14 is an opening 20 that allows the body of a cupcake to be situated, while the cupcake upper portion is supported above the aperture 14. In its simplest form, the support comprises an aperture 14 and an opening 20 (see FIG. 2 a). In another embodiment, an internal cup having sidewalls 21 and a base surface 22 is provided to form an enclosed depression within for supporting the body of a cupcake therein (see FIG. 2 b). In yet another embodiment, there may be a continuous base surface 25 that spans the entire underside of the device and is parallel with the upper surface 13 (see FIG. 2 c). The cupcake base 23 rests against this base surface 25 and the interior edge of the aperture 14 supports the cupcake body. The continuous base surface 25 would extend to the sidewalls 12 of the device and into or under the outer lip 11, creating an enclosed cavity below the upper surface 13 and between the walls and the lower portion 23 of the device.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown an overhead view of yet another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the symbol is that of a number three and the confectionary support means comprises an open and continuous channel 24. The channel 24 is an open section of the support device that allows a plurality of cupcake articles 15 to be placed therein and aligned in the pattern as provided. This is distinct from the discrete supports of the first embodiment, but the same overall purpose is being achieved. The device comprises a shape forming an alphanumeric symbol or visually recognizable shape, whereby the shape is constructed from an upstanding sidewall 12 and a base or lip surface 11. Using a channel 24, the terminations 18 provide a connection point between opposing sidewalls 12. Intermittent connector branches may also be employed between sidewalls 12, depending on the symbol chosen and the desired shape of the device. The sidewalls 12 form the shape, including different curves or bends 19, corners, or shaped features forming the outline of the desired symbol.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 a through 4 c, there are shown three embodiments for the support channel 24. Similar to the discrete holders of the first embodiment, the channel 24 includes variation as to the design thereof. These embodiments include an upper channel opening 24 and an open area 20 thereunder, an open area that is bounded by channel sidewalls 21 and a base 22 to form a channel depression, or an open area 20 bounded by a base surface 25 enclosing the entire base of the assembly. As noted, this base surface 25 would enclose the open area 20 in conjunction with the sidewalls 12 (see FIG. 3) of the assembly to establish the inner boundaries of the open area 20. The base surface 25 forms to the shape of the symbol and may flow into or under the lip 11 to form a continuous underside surface.

Overall, the device provides a cupcake support and arrangement therefor, wherein a message or symbol is conveyed by its shape and design. It is contemplated that the device can be comprised of disposable, one-time use materials or reusable materials for display purposes. However, it is also contemplated that the device may be comprised of a metallic or cookware suitable material that can be placed into a cooking over and thereafter be used as a display. In this alternate form, the device functions as a cookware article support and a display article.

Many people enjoy serving treats and other confectionary articles at events and family get-togethers because they can be enjoyed by hand and at the discretion of the partygoers without utensils or dishware. finding ways to display many food articles such as this, including cupcakes, can be a challenge without consuming too much space. Further still, a party planner or the event host may wish to direct the guests' attention to a particular theme, or display a desired message for a distinct purpose. The present invention provides a new support article and a method of displaying confectionary articles that contemplates a shaped display structure and one that also function as a cookware article. The steps involved in displaying the confectionary articles includes first choosing a desired message, arranging one or more supports of appropriate symbol to achieve the message, and placing cupcakes or other confectionary articles therein for later retrieval and consumption. An added step before arranging the supports is to utilize the supports in the cooking process of the confectionary articles, wherein the supports are placed in a cooking oven with the batter of the food items to support them as they are baked. The concept provides users with a unique way to display a message when celebrating with family and friends, while offering the party host a means of both cooking and displaying the food articles.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. 

1) A confectionary food article support device, comprising: an upper surface having a first and second upstanding sidewall; said sidewalls supporting said upper surface in an elevated position; said upper surface and sidewalls forming a defined shape being that of a recognizable symbol; a confectionary article support means along said upper surface for supporting at least one confectionary food item therethrough and displaying said food item along said upper surface shape. 2) The device of claim 1, wherein said confectionary article support means further comprises at least one discrete aperture trough said upper surface for supporting a single confectionary article therein. 3) The device of claim 1, wherein said confectionary article support means further comprises: at least one discrete aperture through said upper surface, at least one interior sidewall extending downward from said aperture edge to form a depression for supporting a single confectionary article therein. 4) (canceled) 5) (canceled) 6) The device of claim 1, wherein said confectionary article support means further comprises an elongated channel along said upper surface for supporting a plurality of confectionary articles therein. 7) The device of claim 1, wherein said confectionary article support means further comprises: an elongated channel along said upper surface; at least one interior sidewall extending from said channel edges to form a channel depression for supporting a plurality of confectionary articles therein. 8) (canceled) 9) (canceled) 10) The device of claim 1, wherein said sidewalls and upper surface further comprising a cookware material suitable for supporting a confectionary item while baking in an oven. 11) A method of displaying confectionary food articles, comprising the steps of: choosing a desired message to display; using at least one confectionary article support having a defined symbol shape to form said desired message; placing confectionary articles into support means within said article support for having said supports both display a message and support confectionary items for retrieval. 12) The method of claim 11, further comprising the steps of: utilizing a confectionary article support having a cookware suitable structure for supporting said confectionary articles within an oven while they cook; removing said cooked articles and said support before displaying and arranging said desired message. 